Press Release — New Board Member

Mending Together Welcomes Major Sandra Pawar to its Board of Directors.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA — OCTOBER 6, 2026 — Mending Together is pleased to announce the appointment of Major Sandra Pawar to its Board of Directors.

Major Sandra Pawar, a Salvation Army officer and pastor, has joined the Mending Together Board of Directors.

Pawar brings more than twenty years of experience serving and empowering diverse communities as a Salvation Army officer and pastor. Originally from Australia, she has lived and ministered in New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom, bringing a valuable global perspective to her work. She joins the board with a deep commitment to advocating for people facing injustice and advancing holistic community transformation.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sandra Pawar to our Board,” said Chris Scanlon, executive director and Board chair of Mending Together. “With her experience in community service and development around the globe, Sandra brings invaluable leadership that will help us expand our reach and deepen our support for those we serve.”

Board secretary, Emily Carminati added, “I am so honored to serve on this Board with Sandra. There is no one I know who is better suited to support and move this organization forward than her.”

Pawar holds a degree in Social Work, a master’s degree in International Community Development, a professional certificate in Human Trafficking, and an Education Specialist degree in Community Care and Counseling. She is also the author of More Than Just a Refugee, published by CREST Publications.

“I’m excited to serve on this board,” said Pawar, “Mending Together reflects the trauma-responsive, dignity-centered care that has shaped my approach to supporting people in my congregations, trafficking survivors, and refugees. I believe that healing grows when communities honor the lived experiences of people with gentleness and respect. I hope to strengthen the practices and partnerships that equip everyday people to walk alongside displaced neighbors while supporting their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.”

As a member of the Board of Directors, Pawar will help strengthen awareness of Mending Together, expand community relationships, support fundraising, and provide strategic leadership as the organization grows its reach and impact.

Read more about Pawar’s life and work on our Board of Directors page.

About Mending Together
Mending Together equips everyday people with the tools they need to walk alongside refugees with wisdom, compassion, and resilience. Our programs prioritize communities hosting displaced families, especially in under-resourced areas. We offer trauma-informed training, emotional debriefs, and practical tools that help volunteers and sponsors support refugee healing without burning out.

To learn more about Mending Together, visit www.mendingtogether.org